The Loading Bay review

I popped into The Loading Bay for breakfast today. I’ve been there for drinks before but not had the opportunity to test their food. I was a little apprehensive as the (blackboard) menu does not have prices on and when I was there for drinks before I was assaulted with a charge of R46 for a glass of house red. I believe that not displaying prices will be illegal when the new Consumer Protection Bill takes effect. Anyway, I feigned fearlessness and ordered the full Loading Bay Breakfast (R44) which consisted of 2 (poached or scrambled) eggs on (ciabatta or rye) toast, 3 rashers of bacon, 4 beef chipolatas and a portion of mushrooms with baby tomatoes and what looked like baby spinach.

The breakfast was actually very good. The poached eggs were done well and it was hot. It’s certainly not the fastest kitchen, but  had noted that on my previous visit so I settled in with the complimentary newspaper. It’s all about expectation, I wasn’t in a hurry so I went to the Loading Bay and was happy to wait but otherwise the wait might have been too long.  I also enjoyed my coffee (flat white – R14.50) while I waited. I ordered a glass of water when the breakfast came, for a change it was not forgotten and in fact, came quickly.

R44 for the breakfast isn’t bad. My fears were unfounded. Queen of Tarts was R49 and not as good and Miss K is not much better at R46. The coffee is cheaper than next door at Origin, but it’s probably not quite as good.  The service was fine, if a little pedestrian. The place is modern and trendy. The Loading Bay is not just a restaurant but also a boutique clothing store. I didn’t have time to browse the clothing section, unfortunately. I’ve heard that the lunch menu at The Loading Bay is also really good, with some Lebanese influence.

I was happy with the breakfast and will probably find my way there to try the lunch sometime.

The Loading Bay
30 Hudson Street, De Waterkant
021 425 6320
http://www.loadingbay.co.za/